Meet Nicole Herman | Principal Designer of Social Design Studio

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Herman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicole, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?

Developing good habits has been instrumental in both my personal and professional growth. The following are a few of my core daily habits.

1. Stay curious and open to new ideas. Being in the design world, I always look for new ways to develop spaces. I get excited about trying out a new technique, material, or concept that hasn’t been done before. Because of this, our designs are fresh and reflect each client’s unique story.

2. Stay organized. I am intensely organized and detailed with my priorities. At any time, we have over a dozen projects we are working on at various stages of development. I ensure that our team focuses on the right priorities to move these projects forward. It’s a little boring, but one of my greatest strengths.

3. Rest and reset often. The design field has a reputation for working teams to exhaustion. When we are well-rested, we are more creative and productive. We may have weeks where we are on a deadline, but I do my best to balance those times with a more even pace for the rest of our schedule.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

Social Design Studio is a full-service hospitality interior design firm. Our niche is boutique local restaurant groups, luxury salons, and any other “SOCIAL” gathering space. Hence our name – Social Design Studio. Our approach to concept development is what sets us apart. Not only do we develop the interior design of our spaces, but we assist in concept and brand creation as well.

One restaurant we are working on, and our entire team is excited and proud of is the new brunch concept, The Eleanor. Our team was given direction from our client to create a fun local breakfast and lunch space. Not only did we develop the overall branding palette, graphics, and interiors, but we also gave the clients several options for the name. As a result, every detail of the concept is cohesive and well-developed.

Prior to launching Social Design Studio, I worked at multiple firms honing my creative talent and learned the technical aspects of commercial spaces – ADA, fire and life safety, and local and national building codes. I have worked on hundreds of local, national, and international concepts with numerous small and large brands. Then, when the time was right, I launched my firm.

Someone recently asked me if owning my own business is easy. No, it has been one of the most challenging times of my life. But also one of the most rewarding. I took a small break from design to be with my family for a bit. I missed design and my creative outlet so much that I couldn’t stay away for long. But I do what I do and push through the hard times because I love nothing more than bringing a concept to life for a client.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

Well, hopefully, our friend will be visiting in the spring. It is simply the most magical time to visit the Valley.

We would hike Camelbak Echo Moutain trail at sunrise. (No better view of the city.) Brunch at Postino for their incredible Croque Madame, crispy potatoes, and mimosas. I would have them stay at any of our excellent resorts throughout the city. My favorites are The Princess, Montelucia, and Sanctuary on Camelback. Here we would have at least one full spa day.

We would have a day trip to Sedona. I would take them shopping at Tlaquepaque, then a Pink Jeep Tour, or hike any of the beautiful local trails. And then end the day with dinner at Mariposa.

Back in the city, we could take in a Sun’s game. (Rally the Valley! Next year will be our year!) A little pre-game drinks and pizza at Pizzeria Bianco.

Every night would be great for any of the incredible restaurants or bars we have in Phoenix. Shameless plug for a few of my favorite clients. Bourbon & Bones Cocktail Lounge for a pre-dinner French 75. Or head to the new Fate Brewing on 7th & Camelback for an Irish Red Ale and pretzels. Not a client, but I would have to take them to my husband and my go-to local spot Humble Bistro on High Street.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

First and foremost, I would give the loudest shoutout to my husband. He has been my biggest supporter throughout my entire career. He has endured all the ups and downs and never waivered in his faith in me. He has been my trusted sounding board for nearly two decades. I don’t know where I would be without his support.

Professionally, I have been fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my career. I would not have the level of knowledge of our industry or skills I do without these people.

At the first firm I worked at out of college, our studio director took me under her wing. She poured into me for over eight years. She was patient and always willing to guide me. I looked up to her both professionally and personally in many ways.

That firm’s principal designer was another incredible mentor. During my time, I was honored to work on some of the most iconic restaurants and projects here in the valley and nationwide. Watching these spaces develop from conception to now being some of the most highly treasured spots was life-changing.

I feel blessed to be in an industry that encourages partnership and mentorship. Since opening my firm, many of my clients and collaborators have become valued mentors. For example, I frequently work with Aline Architecture Concepts and learn new lessons from each project we develop. I firmly believe you rise higher when you surround yourself with others who challenge and encourage you.

Website: https://www.socialdesignstudio.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialdesignstudio.co/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/socialdesignstudio/

Image Credits
Stephanie Studer, Jennica Maes